Our Top Picks for Best Folding Knife Under $100

If you’re searching for the best folding knife under 100, you could end up wasting hours and hours, as there are so many products to choose from. Not all folding knives are the same; the best ones are easy to use, compact and versatile enough to be used as an EDC or for other purposes such as camping or hiking. Here are our top picks.

1. Cold Steel Recon 1 Spear Point Plain Edge Knife

The Cold Steel Recon 1 has earned a solid reputation among enthusiasts, and that is not surprising given its excellent features and comfortable grip. The Recon 1 is not the only plain edge knife in the market, but for flexibility it’s hard to match.

What we liked

The Cold Steel has a G-10 handle, which is nonslip and protects your hands.

A pocket clip is included and you can switch the clip with any T-6 torque wrench.

The knife utilizes the patented Ultra Lock mechanism so you’ll have peace of mind when using it for extended periods.

The Cold Steel sports a black Teflon finish. This not only adds to the aesthetics but also prevents rust and reflection.

What we didn't like

2. Kershaw 1660 Ken Onion Leek Folding Knife

The name Kershaw is well-known for its quality knives, and the Ken Onion Leek is one of their best. It combines portability, power and protection for all-around use. Furthermore, it’s safety features are top-of-the-line.

What we liked

The 1660 frame lock provides safety, and it doesn’t move side to side or front to back.

The Onion Leek series comes with two blade options, S30V stainless and Sandvik 13C26 stainless steel.

Its SpeedSafe assisted mechanism ensures the knife opens smoothly.

The knife has a thumb stud that takes just a little push to flip the knife open.

What we didn't like

3. CRKT M16 EDC Folding Knife

As the name makes clear, the CRKT M16 makes for an ideal EDC knife, and it is versatile enough to be used in emergency situations as well. The company is known for their durable knives, and this one lives up to the tradition.

What we liked

The knife is equipped with a Zytel handle, giving you a solid grip without compromising durability.

The CRKT M16 has a 3-inch spear point blade, increasing its versatility in day-to-day and emergency situations.

The knife comes with an LED light with four function modes that you can use in dimly it areas.

The CRKT M16 series offers different textures for the handles that are all ergonomic and comfortable.

What we didn't like

The M16-01KS light/knife combo does not come with an auto lock liner safety feature.

What we didn't like

5. Browning Knives 276 Mossy Oak Linerlock Knife

The 276 Mossy Oak makes it on our list for its versatility and ease of use. We’ve come across a lot of quality Browning folding knives, and the 276 Mossy Oak ranks up there. We like the ergonomic handle as well as the sharp blade.

What we liked

The blade is 3 inches long with a durable tip. It is sharp enough for various camping chores.

There is a lanyard hole built in.

The knife has a Mossy Oak finish and aluminum handles for extra durability and strength.

The 276 Mossy Oak has dual thumb studs so it takes little effort to open and close it.

What we didn't like

6. Kershaw 1620FL Scallion Folding Knife

The Scallion Folding Knife lives up to its claim of being ideal for pocket carry. It has the SpeedSafe for easy access along with many other features that are useful and practical. While it’s designed mainly as an EDC, the Scallion is just as good for camping.

What we liked

The Scallion is equipped with tip lock and frame lock for additional safety during use.

Its handle is 410 stainless steel and bead blasted for durability and nonslip grip.

Its 2.4-inch blade is stainless steel and has been specially designed for extra sharpness.

The knife weighs just 2.9 oz and is 5.75 inches long, making this the ideal size for a pocket knife.

What we didn't like

The lock is bit difficult to find, especially if you’re using it for the first time.

7. Gerber Gator Folding Knife

The Gerber Gator made it to our top 10 for its compact design, and it’s also one we can say is really for EDC as well as camping. With its textured handle, sharp blade and safety mechanism, it’s the kind of knife you can use every day.

What we liked

The Gator Grip handle is textured so it won’t slip from your hand whether it is dry or wet.

The Gerber Gator sports a lock back mechanism so the blade doesn’t accidentally close during use.

The knife’s sheath is made from heavy duty nylon, so it’s suitable for outdoor use.

The blade is made of 420HC stainless steel, making it stronger than the average folding knife.

What we didn't like

8. Kershaw Blur Tiger Stripe

Another Kershaw makes our top 10, this time the Blur Tiger Stripe. This tanto blade is not only versatile but also strong enough to be used for camping and as a backup knife. If you want to add another Kershaw to your collection, the Blur would be a nice addition.

What we liked

The Blur blade is made of Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, giving it the strength to handle a lot of tasks.

The handle is made out of 6061-T6 anodized aluminum and has been fortified for ergonomic purposes.

The blade is 3.3 inches long when open, just the right length for cutting, piercing and other tasks.

What we didn't like

Conclusion

We use knives more often than we think. They are tools that we have come to depend on for a wide range of tasks, from opening packages to preparing food. If you’re gong to carry one on a budget, make sure you’ve got the best folding knife under 100, and that is what you’ll get with any of the products above.